Episode 102

Construction and Communication with Patrick MacIsaac

July 28, 2025

Patrick MacIsaac

The Roby Family of Companies - Managing Partner

Patrick MacIsaac: From Radio Roots to Commercial Construction Leadership

Patrick MacIsaac is a business development leader at The Roby Family of Companies, a Charlotte-based construction business with deep community roots. Originally from Marietta, Georgia, Patrick studied finance at Clemson University before moving to Charlotte in 2004. He began his career with Ferguson Enterprises and later transitioned into the commercial construction industry. Patrick brings a unique background in broadcasting, having hosted a radio show and podcast, to his leadership role, using storytelling and communication as tools to build trust and culture within his company.

Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn

Exploring Communication, Culture, and Growth in the Construction Industry

In this episode of The Power of Design Podcast, host Jack Ossa welcomes fellow podcaster and business leader Patrick MacIsaac. The conversation spans Patrick’s upbringing, education, and professional journey from Ferguson to Roby Commercial. It also explores how his radio background influences how he leads and communicates today. Jack and Patrick reflect on entrepreneurship, the value of hard work, and the role of storytelling in business development. This episode offers a grounded perspective on leadership in construction, emphasizing service, culture, and personal growth.

Main Takeaways from the Podcast Conversation

A Background in Finance and Operations

Patrick studied finance at Clemson University. His early career at Ferguson Enterprises focused on mechanical components and gave him solid training in P&L responsibility and operations.

Real-World Business Lessons

At Ferguson, Patrick learned how large-scale distribution worked. He moved between roles rapidly and appreciated being thrown into new responsibilities, even when he didn’t feel fully qualified, which taught him adaptability and business resilience.

From Customers to Culture

As Patrick worked with contractors and service-based companies, he became more interested in how their businesses operated. This curiosity eventually led him to Roby, where culture and internal values became central to his work.

Radio as a Starting Point

Patrick co-hosted a radio show on WBT before launching the Roby podcast. The platform allowed him to connect with local leaders, share stories, and give visibility to his company’s values and people.

A Focus on Relationships

Throughout the episode, Patrick emphasizes the importance of relationships with family, clients, and team members. He discusses working alongside his wife, interviewing Jack’s wife on their show, and how entrepreneurship sets an example for their children.

Lessons Learned Through Business and Broadcasting

Leadership Through Storytelling

Patrick uses his podcast to tell stories of local leaders and team members. He believes storytelling creates meaningful connections and highlights the “why” behind what businesses do.

Learning by Doing

Much of Patrick’s career has been built through learning on the job, whether it was jumping into new sales roles, starting a radio show, or building relationships in construction. He reinforces the importance of staying open to new opportunities.

Communication is a Business Tool

Patrick’s use of broadcasting and podcasting within the company shows that clear, human communication can be a strategic business tool, not just a marketing effort.

Aligning Personal and Professional Purpose

From parenting lessons to project execution, Patrick frames success as being consistent in values at home and at work. His leadership style is rooted in authenticity and long-term thinking.

Final Thoughts and Reflections from the Episode

This episode of The Power of Design Podcast with Patrick MacIsaac offers a grounded and personal look at leadership within the construction industry. Patrick’s journey from his roots in Georgia, through finance and distribution, to community-driven construction is shaped by communication, adaptability, and genuine care for people. Whether sharing a mic or leading a team, he emphasizes service, culture, and clarity of message. His work at The Roby Family of Companies highlights the power of building not only structures but also lasting human connections.

👉 Connect with Patrick MacIsaac on LinkedIn
👉 Visit The Roby Family of Companies to learn more